"This was a tragic situation," Falls said at a press conference today.

Asked why the two were not charged with capital murder, which could have resulted in death sentences if found guilty, Falls said that charge required "an element of intent."

"These are the correct charges based on the facts of the case," Falls said.

Falls also thanked the agencies that assisted in the investigation and apprehension -- Cordova, Dora, Birmingham police and the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office and the U.S. Marshals.

Asked if he believed the officers who pursued the suspects Monday night acted appropriately, Falls declined to answer but said, "These officers are trained when to pursue ... they are also trained when to disengage."

Birmingham Police Chief A.C. Roper joined Falls in extending condolences to the families of the victims and said the case should serve as a reminder to anyone who would run from police of the tragic results that decision could bring.